COVID-19: impact on pets five years after
https://www.vettimes.com/news/vets/opinion/covid-19-impact-on-pets-five-years-after
An RSPCA veterinarian reflects on lasting effects: over 3.2 million UK households adopted pets during the pandemic, leading to long-term welfare pressures, surge in abandonment, and RSPCA centres still overwhelmed in 2025.
PAW Report reveals new pet ownership challenges emerging post-pandemic
PDSA's 2022 PAW Report reveals that 5.4 million pets were acquired since March 2020, with many showing separation anxiety and behavioural issues as owners return to normal routines.
‘It’s a total cat-astrophe’: why are so many pet cats being abandoned?
Shelters across the UK face capacity crises as abandoned cat numbers surge—34 % increase this year—with rising cost of living, housing insecurity, and post-pandemic shifts fueling the crisis.
Animal charity sees biggest dog intake in 200 years
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/animal-charity-sees-biggest-dog-intake-in-200-years-x0385czwp
The SSPCA reports its highest dog intake ever, linked to a post-COVID ownership boom colliding with rising care costs and puppy farming—calling for urgent support amid soaring veterinary and welfare needs.
Worrying trend emerges in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pet boom
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlM_2TV6fMA
A YouTube video overviewing how many UK owners adopted pets during lockdown—and now struggle with abandonment, behavioural challenges, and long-term care issues as life returns to normal.